The Alberta Electric System Operator (AESO) is responsible for the safe, reliable, and economic planning and operation of the Alberta Interconnected Electric System. We provide open and non-discriminatory access to Alberta’s interconnected power grid and also facilitate Alberta’s competitive wholesale electricity market. The AESO strives to foster an inclusive, diverse and equitable workplace where people feel respected and welcomed for who they are, together we deliver high performance and innovative results.
Reporting to the Manager, System Planning, this role contributes to the development and delivery of the AESO’s Long-Term Transmission Plan. The System Planning group is responsible for assessing the Alberta grid’s compliance with transmission planning standards and developing projects as required to maintain compliance.
Our transmission planning practices are evolving. We are introducing economic analysis to ensure project decisions are based on both technical needs and cost–benefit considerations. We are expanding our team to include individuals who can help advance this approach.
As a Senior Engineer, you will play a key role in a blend of technical and leadership activities. This includes performing engineering analysis such as simulation and modeling of the power grid, identifying and recommending project solutions, and providing guidance and support to peers. You will also contribute to project leadership by helping shape decisions and collaborating across teams to deliver high-quality outcomes.
This full-time opportunity offers a competitive salary, and a variable pay program. We also have paid vacation and flex time, health and dental benefits, mental health support, a defined contribution pension plan, and learning and development opportunities as part of your overall compensation package. We support a hybrid work environment, where the team is in the office on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays. Mondays and Fridays are flexible for where you work best.
Signs you will enjoy working on this team:
- You are comfortable with change and innovation and thrive in a dynamic environment.
- You enjoy working in a team of bright professionals collaboratively and enjoy building strong constructive relationships.
- You have a strong desire to continuously learn and take on new challenges.
- You enjoy engaging conversations on policies and approaches to implement them.
- You have an aptitude for identifying efficiencies and improvements, sharing ideas and enjoy getting others onboard.
- Conduct power system analyses to assess grid reliability and evaluate project alternatives.
- Power flow, voltage stability, and dynamic simulations using PSS/E
- Production cost modeling and generator dispatch simulation
- Develop software and automate processes using Python.
- Analyze data to determine project economics and transmission system utilization.
- Prepare and review engineering study reports and documentation.
- Develop and implement system planning processes.
- Support customer connections by
- Adjusting system plans for customer projects
- Collaborating with Customer Access Studies engineers, Project Managers, and customers
- Assess compliance and comply with Alberta Reliability Standards and ISO Rules.
- Consult with transmission and distribution facility owners.
- Represent the AESO in regulatory proceedings, interjurisdictional technical groups (e.g. WECC), and stakeholder engagements.
- Communicate system plans to internal and external stakeholders.
- Provide guidance and support to engineers in the System Planning and System Projects groups.
A combination of these experiences and qualities will support your success in this role:
- Bachelor’s degree in engineering with a focus on electrical engineering.
- Registered with APEGA as a Professional Engineer or eligibility to register.
- 10 or more years of experience in the electricity industry, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
- Experience with transmission planning, customer interconnection studies, grid operations, or simulation and modeling.
- Articulate and concise written and verbal communications.
- Power flow studies and dynamic simulations, especially using PSS/E
- Software development, especially engineering or scientific simulation software using Python
- Mathematical modeling, especially optimization (e.g., OPF)
- Engineering economics, including production cost modeling, market simulation, or cost estimating
- Working within the Alberta regulatory framework for electricity
If you are contacted for a pre-screening and/or interview, please advise of any accommodation measures required to enable you to fully participate. Information received relating to accommodation measures will be addressed confidentially.
The Alberta Electric System Operator is unable to accept unsolicited agency resumes.
The Alberta Electric System Operator, and its members, officers, employees and agents (collectively, the "AESO") is committed to protecting personal information provided to it. When you submit your personal information to the AESO for the purpose of pursuing employment with the AESO, the collection, use and disclosure of personal information is in accordance with the provisions of the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act (FOIP Act) of Alberta.
As noted, the AESO is mandated to maintain the safe and reliable operations of the provincial power grid. As part of meeting its obligations, the AESO may require the successful candidate to undergo a criminal background check for the position. This collection of personal information for the purposes of a check will be conducted in accordance with Section 33 of the FOIP Act.